Australia Enacts Tough Hate Crime Laws Amid Rising Antisemitic Attacks

On Thursday, February 6, 2025, Australia enacted stringent new laws imposing mandatory jail sentences for hate crimes, including performing Nazi salutes in public. This legislative move aims to address a significant increase in antisemitic attacks across the country.

New Hate Crime Legislation

The newly passed laws stipulate severe penalties for hate-related offenses:

• Public Display of Hate Symbols: Individuals caught performing a Nazi salute or displaying hate symbols in public face a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 months imprisonment.
• Terrorism-Related Hate Crimes: Offenses connected to terrorism, including financing terrorist activities or advocating violence based on race, religion, disability, ethnic origin, or gender identity, carry mandatory minimum sentences of up to six years.

These measures were introduced in response to a series of antisemitic incidents targeting Jewish communities in Australia. Recent months have seen a disturbing rise in attacks on synagogues and Jewish community properties, including acts of arson and vandalism. Notably, a caravan loaded with explosives intended for Jewish targets was discovered in Sydney, underscoring the escalating threat.

Government’s Firm Stance

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who previously opposed mandatory sentencing, has taken a position against antisemitic offenses. He emphasised the necessity of holding offenders accountable, stating, “I want people who are engaged in antisemitism to be held to account, to be charged, to be incarcerated.”

Recent Legal Actions

The enforcement of these new laws has already led to significant legal actions:

• Jacob Hersant Case: Self-described neo-Nazi Jacob Hersant became the first individual in Victoria to be convicted under the new legislation for performing a Nazi salute in public. He was sentenced to one month in jail, highlighting the government’s commitment to enforcing these laws.
• Soccer Match Incident: In New South Wales, three men were convicted for performing Nazi salutes during a soccer match in June 2024. They were fined for their actions and are currently appealing against the penalties imposed.

These developments underscore Australia’s resolve to combat hate crimes and protect its diverse communities from acts of hatred and intolerance.